The Solomon Islands might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a budget trip, but if you’re smart about how you travel, you can explore this tropical paradise without breaking the bank. It’s definitely a destination worth considering if you want to experience pristine beaches, amazing cultural sites, and stunning marine life—all on a budget.
Saving Money on Accommodation
Accommodation in the Solomon Islands can vary from very basic beach huts to mid-range hotels. For budget travelers, the cheapest option is staying in a “guesthouse.” These are often family-run and offer simple, clean rooms with shared facilities at reasonable prices.
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A good budget option is to stay in local villages. Some villages across the country offer “homestays” where you can sleep in basic accommodation, eat local food, and truly experience the local way of life. Prices for homestays can be around 50–80 SBD (roughly USD 6–10) per night, making this one of the cheapest options.
If you’re moving between islands, look for places with kitchen facilities. Being able to cook your meals will help you save a lot of money on food rather than eating out all the time.
Recommended Cheap Stays:
- Dolphin View Beach Lodge (Munda) – A basic lodge that gives you a beachfront experience without the high price.
- Zela Guesthouse (Honiara) – Located in the capital, this guesthouse is affordable and provides clean, comfortable rooms.
- Agnes Gateway Hotel (Ranongga Island) – Decent budget rooms with friendly staff.
Affordable Eating: How to Eat Well on a Budget
Eating out in the Solomon Islands can be a bit pricey if you’re always sticking to restaurants, especially in bigger towns like Honiara. To save money, head to the local markets and eat like the locals. Markets, like the Honiara Central Market, are full of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other local produce. You can find delicious and affordable meals like fresh fish or coconuts for under 30 SBD (around USD 3-4).
If you stay in a hostel or guesthouse, take advantage of the shared kitchens. Cooking your meals will be a lot cheaper than dining at restaurants every day. Stock up on supplies at local markets and enjoy traditional meals without spending too much.
Street food stalls are another good idea for cheap eats. Look for delicious grilled meats, fish, and local snacks like “laplap” (a traditional dish made from grated root vegetables). They are not only cheap but also give you a taste of the local cuisine.
Budget Food Tips:
- Eat at local markets where food is fresh and cheap.
- Use hostel kitchens to prepare your own meals.
- Purchase snacks from street vendors instead of pricey cafes or restaurants.
Getting Around the Solomon Islands on a Budget
There are no trains in the Solomon Islands, and domestic flights can be expensive, so you’ll spend much of your time traveling by boat or by bus. To save money, stick to local public transport options.
For getting around larger islands like Guadalcanal or Malaita, use minibuses or shared taxis. These are the primary form of public transportation and are generally quite cheap. Fares range from 5–10 SBD (USD 1–2), depending on the distance.
When traveling between islands, you’ll most likely use “outboard” motorboats or ferries. These options can be more affordable than flying, although islands like Choiseul and the Western Province are still pretty remote and can be harder to reach on a budget.
Transportation Cost Tips:
- Use buses or shared taxis instead of private cars.
- Ferries and local boats are cheaper than flying between islands.
- Ask your guesthouse about the cheapest transport options—locals can often give the best advice.
Free and Cheap Activities to Do in the Solomon Islands
One of the best things about the Solomon Islands is that many of the attractions are natural wonders, meaning they are free or very cheap! Nature is the biggest draw here, and you don’t need to spend a lot to get the best experience.
Beaches and snorkel sites are often free to access. All you need is your own gear. If you’re into diving, it can be costly, but snorkeling with gear that you’ve brought from home is a great way to see beautiful coral reefs without paying for tours. Marovo Lagoon, for example, is a stunning spot for underwater exploration, and it’s only the boat ride that will cost you money.
Do you love hiking? Many islands offer free treks through rainforests. The hike to Tenaru Falls on Guadalcanal is one of the more popular ones and doesn’t cost anything beyond transport. Exploring the jungle on other islands like Makira or Temotu is largely untapped by tourists and lets you enjoy nature at its finest with barely any expense.
Affordable Must-See Attractions:
- Marovo Lagoon – A UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for incredible biodiversity; snorkeling here is a must!
- Tenaru Falls – Free hike to gorgeous waterfalls in the middle of the jungle.
- Visit WWII Sites – History buffs will love that many World War II relic sites are scattered throughout Honiara, including the American Memorial, which is free to visit.
Budget-Friendly Destinations in the Solomon Islands
While the Solomon Islands is generally affordable, some places offer more budget-friendly experiences than others. If you’re trying to keep costs low, focus on staying in the more accessible regions.
Honiara is the capital and a good base for budget travelers. There are cheap transport options, affordable accommodation, and lots of free things to do, like visiting museums or the Central Market.
Ghizo Island is another budget-friendly destination. You’ll find cheaper guesthouses, affordable dive schools, and some of the best beaches in the country. Gizo town also has a lively market—great for scoring cheap, fresh food.
If you like hiking and being in nature, consider visiting Munda in the Western Province. It offers free treks, waterfalls, and jungle experiences. The diving there is world-class, and you’ll find a few dive operators with reasonable prices.
Top Budget Destinations:
- Honiara – Affordable accommodations, local experiences, and free attractions.
- Ghizo Island – Budget-friendly with beautiful beaches and affordable adventure activities.
- Munda – A nature lover’s paradise with free hikes and waterfalls.
Final Budget Travel Tips
Planning ahead can help you save a lot of money in the Solomon Islands. Flights to and from the islands can be costly, so book as early as possible to get the best price.
When you’re on the islands, sticking to local transport and staying in homestays or guesthouses will keep your daily costs relatively low. Take advantage of free activities, cook your meals, and eat at the markets whenever possible.
Finally, travel slowly. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in island life and save money at the same time. The Solomon Islands isn’t a place to rush through, so enjoy each day without stressing about your budget.
The Solomon Islands can be an affordable destination if you’re willing to spend a bit of time exploring like a local and making smart decisions. You’ll get to enjoy island life without stretching your wallet too thin!
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